Method
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake Batter
Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Gently fold in the dry ingredients without overmixing.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Rolling the Cake
Prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto the towel and gently peel off the parchment paper.
Roll the cake along with the towel while it’s warm to prevent cracks.
Let it cool completely.
Prepare the Creamy Filling
In a bowl, whip heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly.
Roll the cake back up without the towel, making sure it’s tight but not squished.
Finishing Touches
Transfer the rolled cake to a serving platter.
Dust it with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.
Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap and store for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving. For slicing, chill the cake for 30 minutes for cleaner cuts.